Derby goal hero Ryan impresses his boss

KEITH Hill has praised centre back Ryan Delaney following his goalscoring performance in Rochdale’s 2-0 victory over local rivals Bury.

The Irish U21 international opened the scoring with a towering header from a Brad Inman corner and played a key

‘Delaney’s going to be a superb player for us’

part in a resolute defensive display from the Dale. And in his post match comments Hill spoke highly of the 21-year-old: “Ryan Delaney’s going to be a superb player for us.

“I think to be honest with you the fact that he’s been away with the internationals and he didn’t play at the weekend has helped him because he hadn’t been playing much league football prior to that.”

Since joining from Burton Albion in January Delaney has made nine appearances in the league, and his manager has been impressed with the impact that he’s had on the side.

“He played a good amount of games on the trot so he’s done really well, and he’s a very good player for this football club.”

Meanwhile, Hill also spoke of his dedication to the club he has twice led to promotion: “I work with a good group of players and I’m prepared to stay at this football club as long as I get the support from the chairman and the board of directors. I’m getting it from the players as well, and everybody.”

Hill reserved special praise for the 1,500 away fans who made the short journey to Gigg Lane on Tuesday night. “The supporters tonight were amazing, absolutely superb.”